BIOL 1042 - Principles of Biology II

Credits: 5
Hours/Week: Lecture 4Lab 3
Course Description: This is a lab science course dealing with ecology and a taxonomic survey of the major groups of organisms. It is a continuation of BIOL 1041  . Topics include phylogeny, morphology, development, and structure-function relationships of viruses, bacteria, protistans, plants, fungi, and animals, as well as ecology at the population, community, and ecosystem levels. Laboratory exercises consist of observations and investigations of ecological interactions as well as practical identification of various organisms and structures.
MnTC Goals
3 Natural Science

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 1041  with a grade of C or higher
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: None

Major Content

1. Taxonomy and distinguishing features of major life forms

   1. prokaryotic diversity

   2. protist diversity

   3. fungal diversity

   4. plant diversity and evolution

   5. metazoan body plans and animal diversity (may include dissection)

2. Behavioral Ecology

3. Population Ecology

4. Community Ecology

5. Ecosystem Ecology

6. The Biosphere

1. demonstrate understanding of scientific method, scientific inquiry, and development of scientific theories.

2. describe the distinguishing characteristics of the major groups of organisms.

3. explain the probable phylogenetic relationships among these groups.

4. describe the life cycles of organisms which are representative of these groups.

5. identify important structures and functions in these organisms.

6. distinguish characteristics of major groups of viruses.

7. describe the differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

8. explain the interaction/interdependence of various groups of organisms.

9. distinguish among factors that influence ecological population growth or decline.

10. explain interactions between and among members of an ecological community.

11. describe the movement of energy through ecosystems.

12. apply concepts, knowledge, and vocabulary of biology at the level necessary for success in subsequent biology course for science majors.

13. demonstrate quantitative reasoning skills.

14. demonstrate dissection skills necessary for examination of internal anatomy of preserved specimens.

15. demonstrate microscopy skills necessary for observation of living organisms.

16. formulate and test hypotheses and communicate experimental findings.

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